Delfred D. "Fred" Brinkman

1936-2007

Delfred D. (Fred ) Brinkman of Billings died on Friday, Mary 11, 2007

A memorial service will take place at First United Methodist Church in Billings on Thursday, May 17, at 4 p.m. Michelotti-Sawyers is assisting the family with arrangements.

Delfred D. Brinkman was born July 5, 1936, in Havre, Montana, the son of Delfred M. Brinkman and Dorothy (Watkins) Brinkman. He grew up in Chinook, where he was graduated from high school in 1954.

Fred attended Eastern Montana College (now MSU-B) for two years, and he played the position of guard on the EMC basketball team under his beloved coach "Shorty" Alterowitz, who was his role model and teacher. Fred sang in the men’s chorus and served in the National Guard. He then taught elementary school for three years in Whitefish. Returning to EMC, Fred earned baccalaureate and master’s degrees in elementary education and then earned a principal’s endorsement from MSU in Bozeman.

In an education career spanning 34 years, Fred taught in elementary schools for 8 years and was an elementary principal for 23 years in School District 2 in Billings. Fred truly loved children; he started several programs in the schools to enrich their learning and to further parent relationships. He had a gift for working with people of all ages.

He married Jo-Ann Nunley in 1956 in Big Timber, and he was a loving and supportive father of his three children: Mantz, Carrie, and Jan.

He interrupted his career at one point to work for Nance Petroleum as a landman for six years. Fred counted his time with Nance as a most rewarding experience and learned much in the process.

He married Valerie Glynn in 1997. Fred will especially be missed by his wife, Valerie; Fred’s loving and caring ways brought her through difficult times. His love and care along with his sense of humor were invaluable "spirit lifters" for her. Traveling was a mutual love of theirs, with Fred’s enjoying the planning of trips almost as much as the actual travel.

Fred lived life with enthusiasm and gusto. Always an avid reader and curious minded, he was a lifelong learner, exploring any and all things that took his interest. In subsequent years, he became an expert angler (the Big Horn River was a favorite spot), and he enjoyed bowling in two leagues in Billings and going to national bowling tournaments.

Fred was a loving and caring father of his three children who will dearly miss his advice and entertaining sense of humor. He has four grandchildren with a granddaughter on the way. His daughter, Carrie McCann, is unable to attend the funeral but condolences may be sent to 4036 NE 178th Street, Lake Forest Park, Washington 98155

Fred died from a rare and aggressive lung disease at the age of 70. He died surrounded by the love of his wife, Valerie, his brother, and his children.

Surviving are his wife, Valerie Brinkman; his children, their spouses, and his grandchildren: Mantz Brinkman and his children David and Danny; Carrie McCann (John) and son Zachary; and Jan Kvilhaug (Lee) and son Jacob. He is also survived by his sister, Betty L. Brinkman of Harrisburg, Pa; and his brother, Bill C. Brinkman of Great Falls.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Delfred M. and Dorothy A. Brinkman.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.